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March 20, 2026

"What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals."

-- Zig Ziglar --

Learning national solutions for local government

This week has been a whirlwind of activity for your city councilmembers and me! There were six of us attending the National League of Cities Conference in Washington DC. I always enjoy the sessions and hearing from local electeds across our great country. The sessions this time included : Local Solutions to End Homelessness, Reducing Community-Based Violence for Safe, Healthy and Hopeful Communities, Simplifying Federal Grants: How Communities Can Shape the Next Wave of Grant Reform, and one of my favorites this time:

Bridging Community Divides & Strengthening Trust

This session highlighted the work of The Dignity Index with Co-Founder Tim Shriver.

He began talking about the dehumanizing conversations being held online daily that can put people’s lives in danger. He described how people can sit in privacy or isolation and type mean, hurtful things about anyone and anything that they want – without much consequence to themselves. He labeled it “the contempt industrial complex.” We engage in these online conversations and create faceless dehumanizing situations. He turned his focus to the electeds in the room and told us, “It’s hard work facing the anger coming at you every day.” Shriver talked about the two parties and the fact that the base for each is more likely to be angry and dehumanizing than the bulk of the community. He told us to lead for the bulk of the people.  The topic turned to the current war in Iran, and his advice was that we can’t affect the war in the Middle East, but we can affect the one at home. We need bravery from our elected officials because our kids are watching! We don’t want our children to give up on civility because they see it happening in the adults. He encouraged everyone to talk about the programs, policies and plans, but not the person. Leaders of our cities need to set the tone and be passionate about doing the right thing. Our country is at risk because ¼ of residents believe violence is the solution. We were encouraged We need to communicate to understand, not spew hate or one-sided views. Ask questions of those you disagree with – ask them to tell you more because you are seeking to understand. Give equal time to those who you disagree with.  Do it for your children, country, and integrity!

We also had the opportunity to meet with Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell as well as Congressman Adam Smith. We spoke about the recent flooding, and I shared our appreciation for the work they have done to help us get federal funding for the damage and to increase our access to the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. We also discussed at grade railroad crossing needs and Sen. Cantwell’s dedication to get funding at a robust rate. With Congressman Smith, we talked about civility and he said that he aligns with the South King County local electeds who focus on problem solving that impacts our residents – including public safety and housing. All in all, it was a great week, but nothing ever is as good as coming back HOME!

Congratulations to our amazing City Clerk!

On March 19, 2026, Auburn City Clerk Shawn Campbell was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Washington Municipal Clerks Association (WMCA) Annual Conference, held at Three Rivers Convention Center in Kennewick. The Lifetime Achievement is the highest of 4 awards given by WMCA.

To be eligible for this award, the nominee must have 10+ years of Clerk experience.

The WMCA Awards are a competitive process in which Administrators, City Managers, staff members, or Municipal Clerk peers nominate a candidate who stands head and shoulders above the rest. The nominations are reviewed and scored by WMCA’s Awards Committee and the winners are ultimately selected by the WMCA President.

Criteria considered by the Awards Committee: Encompass full clerk career, regardless of title. The nominee must have exhibited exceptional service in areas that may include, but are not limited to, leadership, organization, administration, communications, service to WMCA, professional development, special projects and community involvement.

A life that helped Auburn bloom

It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of Josephine “Jo” Cugini, a beloved member of our Auburn community and the last of the pioneering Cugini family. Jo, who passed away at 98, was truly a force -- a business leader, philanthropist, and a warm, welcoming presence who helped shape the Auburn we know today. Alongside her husband Dario, she built Cugini Florists into a cornerstone of downtown Auburn and gave back generously through countless organizations, scholarships, and community efforts.

Jo’s kindness, grace, and commitment to others left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She will be deeply missed, and her legacy will continue to live on in the community she loved so much. I invite you to read more about her remarkable life in her beautiful obituary.

Spring is here, and so is your spring Auburn Magazine!

So what's going on with those King County flood alerts?

The Green River is also in Flood Phase 1, and will at times enter Flood Phase 2, which typically does not result in impacts, and is expected to fluctuate over the next couple of days.

Our teams are in close coordination with partners and are keeping a careful eye on both rivers. While conditions can always change, there is no cause for concern at this time. We’ll continue to provide updates if anything shifts!

Last chance to catch Legally Blonde the Musical!

If you missed it last weekend, you still have one more chance to catch Legally Blonde The Musical here in Auburn! I encourage you to check it out during its final performances this weekend and support the talented local cast bringing this fun, high-energy show to life.

📅 Friday, March 20 - Sunday, March 22
⏰ Various times
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St.
💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

Make and Mingle @ Postmark Stop by the Postmark for our Make & Mingle session! Join us for a cup of coffee with whatever art project you might be working on. A free, no-pressure environment for artists and creatives to gather... you can talk with other artists, ask for feedback or critique from on-site staff if available, bring your sketchbook to work out ideas, or just quietly draw in the gallery or work on your art! Intended for ages 18+. 📅 Wednesdays ⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

History & Future of Rag Rug Weaving Workshop Join visual artist and weaver Allyce Wood for a creative workshop full of textile interpretation, creative design, and technical skill building to understand the wide world of rag rug weaving. Look into the historic archive at the Mary Olson Farm to study and take inspiration from rugs from the early 20th century, as well as contemporary pieces Wood has on display at the Postmark Center for the Arts, AIR exhibition, to understand both the feminist past and creative future of this medium. Together, you will learn how to upcycle garments into weaveable fibers, build your understanding of looms and warping techniques, and try your hand at weaving a rag rug on a communal frame loom. This class aims to provide the inspiration, theoretical knowledge, and real hands-on practice to build your own future weaving projects. 📅 Thursday, March 26 ⏰ 5 - 7 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Drop-In Drawing @ Postmark Come stop by for our new Drop-In Drawing sessions at the Postmark! A free, no-pressure environment for artists and creatives to drop-in to draw from a still life or the gallery. Stay for whole two hours or only 10 minutes. Bring tools to either shade or color with, and your own sketchbook or drawing pad. There will be on-site help for critique/questions/advice. All are welcome. Ages: 15+ Registration: $0 Instructor: Postmark Staff 📅 Fridays ⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Drop-In Painting With Amy Sie @ Postmark Amy Sie is offering Drop-In Gongbi Painting sessions at the Postmark! A free, no-pressure environment for you to start a new painting, or work on an old one. Please bring your own tools and materials for watercolor painting. On-site help for critique/questions/advice. All are welcome.  Ages: 18+ Fee: $0 Instructor: Amy Sie 📅 Fridays ⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Comedy at the Course Comedy at the Course will keep you laughing all night long as three comedians work to twist your funny bone. Ages 18 and over only. 📅 Friday, March 27 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Auburn Golf Course - Bogey's Public House | 29630 Green River Road SE 💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student/senior)

Cultures of the Valley Family Day Free Family Event! Learn more about some of the cultures that call the valley home in the first of two Family Day programs during our exhibit Shaping the Valley. Join us as we explore Japanese and Marshalles cultures through fun activities and crafts. Be sure the visit again in May to learn about more cultures that make the Valley great! All ages welcome! View more info at www.wrvmuseum.org. 📅 Saturday, March 28 ⏰ Noon - 4 p.m. 📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE

Peter Cotton Trail Friday, April 3 - Monday, April 6 Hop through Auburn's parks and trails in search of the elusive bunnies who will be hidden in various locations around Auburn. Find 10 bunnies, submit a scorecard, and get entered for a chance to win some awesome prizes! This family-friendly event is perfect for all ages, including seniors and those in the specialized recreation community. It's a great way to get outside, stay active and enjoy the outdoors! More info on auburnwa.gov. 📅 Friday, April 3 - Monday, April 6 ⏰ Dawn to dusk 📍 Various parks

Gotta Catch 'em All Spring Break Drop-in Days Create your own set of Pacific Northwest Pokémon cards! Each day we will learn about native creatures from our area and create new Pokémon cards. Be sure to visit each day as we focus on different animals each day! 📅 Wed. April 8 - Fri. April 10 ⏰ Noon - 4 p.m. 📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE

Rhythm and Rhymes: Story Hour with Auburn Symphony Orchestra Join us at the Postmark Center for the Arts from 10am - 11am for Rhythm and Rhymes, a unique collaboration between Auburn Symphony Orchestra and the Auburn Library. Taking inspiration from a children’s book, an ASO musician will teach an age-appropriate, interactive music program, and an Auburn librarian will then read the story aloud. Afterwards, families will be invited to explore instruments, and receive a craft to take home. Rhythm and Rhymes combines music and literature for children and families to enjoy over the course of 45 minutes. This event is free and family friendly. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County. FREE | ALL AGES 📅 Saturday, April 11 ⏰ 10 - 11 a.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Second Saturdays - Print Studio OPEN HOUSE Visit Postmark Center for the Arts, open to the public each Second Saturday from 12-4PM! Each month features FREE, all ages performances, crafts, and events! Join us for an interactive afternoon of printmaking demos, studio tours, snacks, and giveaways to celebrate the opening of our new print studio! Our newly renovated lower-level art studios have added around 2,000 square feet of dedicated artmaking space. Beginning April 1, 2026 artists will be able to enroll in a monthly studio membership and work on their personal projects in our brand new studio space! Stop by the open house to learn more. This event is family friendly, and no previous art experience is required. 📅 Saturday, April 11 ⏰ Noon - 4 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

13 Til Midnight - Taylor Swift Tribute Are you a Swifty? Then we have the show for you! 13 Til Midnight is the Taylor Swift Tribute Band! Performing songs from a wide range of Taylor's albums and eras, from the hits to fan favorite deep cuts. They have something every Taylor Fan! 📅 Saturday, April 11 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St. 💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

Blood Drive at Auburn City Hall  Be someone's hero today and donate blood. The Bloodworks Bloodmobile will be located outside City Hall.  Appointments are required for the best possible donation experience. Same-day appointments available at most locations. Photo ID required. For safety, we kindly request no visitors under 16 at our donation sites. Eat a hearty meal and drink plenty of fluids prior to donation. Book your one hour appointment at bloodworksnw.org/giveblood 📅 Tuesday, April 14 ⏰ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 📍 Auburn City Hall | 25 W. Main Street 🎟️ Register

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Class Registration Class will be held on Wednesday evenings April 29, 2026 through June 13, 2026 from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. There will be two Saturday Drills: May 23, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM June 13, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM CERT training is designed to teach community members how to help themselves and the people around them during and after a disaster. The Auburn CERT class is offered free of charge. Class graduates will receive a backpack, hard hat, a reflective vest, safety goggles, and other gear to keep. Participants are asked to provide their own work gloves and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Register for the class here: www.auburnwa.gov/CERT For more information please call 253-876-1925 or email emergencyprep@auburnwa.gov. Cost: $0 Full info available at www.auburnwa.gov/CERT 📅 Wednesday, April 15 ⏰ 6 - 9:30 p.m. 📍 Auburn Emergency Operations Center | 1 E. Main St. 🎟️ Register

Closing Reception | AIR: Auburn Artists in Residence Join us for the closing reception of AIR: Auburn Artists in Residence at Postmark Center for the Arts! Visit the gallery and take a last look, enjoy light snacks, and listen to artist talks.  📅 Thursday, April 16 ⏰ 5 - 7 p.m.. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

AT Large Join us for a night of wonderful music with these two award winning musicians from Sequim, WA. This duo combines Amanda Bacon’s amazing vocals with Todd Ortloff’s musical talents on the piano. Amanda & Todd will dazzle you with their flawless harmonies and fabulous stage presence. Come spend and evening with AT Large! 📅 Friday, April 17 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave. 💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student)

Clean Sweep Auburn’s 2026 Clean Sweep will be held Saturday, April 18. This event is held in honor of Earth Day. Projects will focus on clean-up, environmental restoration, and beautification efforts in and around Auburn. Volunteer groups will work on light clean-up and maintenance; landscaping, painting, weeding, and planting in and around downtown and at various park sites; and a handful of other projects as needed Volunteers can either choose to participate in a specific project or can ask to be assigned to any project, in which case your group will be assigned where the most volunteer support is needed. Service clubs, social service agencies, faith-based groups, scouting troops, businesses, families, and individuals are being asked to come together and work on these projects.  Please plan accordingly to bring your own source of water for the 3-hour event.  The morning agenda for Saturday, April 18 is as follows:  7:30 - 8:30 AM …… Optional Check in - Auburn Community & Events Center 7:30 - 8:30 AM ……Optional Welcome Breakfast - Auburn Community & Events Center 8:45 - 9:00 AM ......Check in at project location - emailed in advance ***Be sure to bring your own water to your project*** 9:00 - 12:00 PM ......Volunteers commence project tasks  Online Registration closes Wednesday, April 15 at 5:00 PM.  Registrations will not be accepted April 16 or 17. Volunteers interested in participating but have not registered, can register on-site at park locations TBA. Important Links: Online Registration Form Registration Form (PDF) Group Waiver (PDF) 2026 Fact Sheet (PDF)      📅 Saturday, April 18 ⏰ 9 a.m. - Noon 📍 Auburn Community & Events Center | 910 Ninth St. SE 🎟️ Register

Comedy at the Course Comedy at the Course will keep you laughing all night long as three comedians work to twist your funny bone. Ages 18 and over only. 📅 Saturday, April 18 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Auburn Golf Course - Bogey's Public House | 29630 Green River Road SE 💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student/senior)

Winning Her Wings: Living Voices Free Program | Appropriate for ages 12 & Up Who were the first women to fly for the United States military?   How did sexism, racism and antisemitism shape the wartime experiences of minority women? Developed in partnership with the Museum of Flight, Museum of History & Industry, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and Boeing. RSVP to attend - Register Online 📅 Saturday, Apirl 25 ⏰ 2 p.m. 📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE 🎟️ Register

Auburn Symphony Orchestra - Old and New Step into a world where baroque elegance meets contemporary color. Old and New blends the timeless charm of trio sonatas by Bach and Quantz with the rhythmic sparkle of Ilja Hurnik and the meditative beauty of Hilary Tann’s Shoji, inspired by Japanese paper screens. Auburn Symphony musicians Wendy Wilhelmi (flute), Shannon Spicciati (oboe), Olga Ruvinov (cello), and Lorenzo Marasso (harpsichord) bring this luminous evening to life. 📅 Saturday, April 25 ⏰ 7 - 8:30 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave. 💲 Tickets ($36 regular, $12 student)

Chicago Tribute Authority Chicago Tribute Authority - brings the legendary sound of Chicago to life with an ensemble of 11 of the Northwest’s most skilled and versatile musicians. With a powerful horn section, dynamic percussion, and outstanding vocal talent, this tribute band delivers a high-energy, authentic performance that captures the spirit and precision of the iconic rock band. Experience the music of Chicago like never before, right here in the Pacific Northwest!! 📅 Saturday, April 25 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St. 💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

Our Faces, Our Futures: Auburn Headshots Project (1 of 2) The Auburn Headshots Project provides free, professional-quality headshots to Auburn residents, photographed by Andy Perkovich. This project supports job seekers, students, and small business owners with a vital career resource while fostering community connection. This event is free for Auburn residents. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County.  Check in with staff upon arrival. Please note that the photographer will be taking individual portraits only, no group photos.  FREE | ALL AGES 📅 Thursday, April 30 ⏰ 4 - 7 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Bell Bottom Blues - Tribute to Eric Clapton Founded in 2019, Bell Bottom Blues quickly became a name in the Tribute scene of the Pacific Northwest. Honoring the extensive catalog of the great Eric Clapton - including Cream & Derek and The Dominos - Bell Bottom Blues' lineup has evolved over the years and continues to thrill crowds from theaters and casinos to wineries and private events. Front man JUSTIN KAUSAL-HAYES (lead vocals and guitar) brings years of experience as a performer and bandleader, striving to recreate Clapton’s sound and feel with every note. Paired with the unmatched guitar skills of co-founding band member SCOTT DONALDSON with his own decades of expertise, they are dedicated to the timeless melodies, driving rhythms, and masterful guitar licks of the iconic artist. Rounding out the band are some of Seattle's most accomplished pro musicians. Their combined talent and passion for this classic music is evident every time they take the stage. 📅 Saturday, May 2 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St. 💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

Yes, it really did snow just a week ago!

Auburn is rich with history — from historical Main Street to the artifacts preserved throughout White River Valley Museum — I am excited to share these stories with all of you each week. 

Bicycles are a feminist icon? They wheely are

(Image courtesy of White River Valley Museum)

Bicycles became a polarizing feminist symbol of the modern “New Woman” in the late 1800s. Bicycles provided an affordable way to travel alone without a chaperone, giving bikes a slightly sexy and transgressive reputation. Bicycle riding was also associated with independence, self-reliance, health, and the women’s suffrage movement. Despite this growing popularity, letting an object sit between a woman’s legs was still seen as unseemly in public. Manufacturers began selling bicycles with frames that didn’t divide women’s skirts to appeal to a less daring clientele.